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20 pages, 1290 KB  
Article
Rapid Protein Extraction from Canola Meal Pre-Treated with Enzymatic Reactive Extrusion
by Sunandita Ghosh, Edith Cristina González Hernández, Xinmei Sha, Jeff Chow, Fernanda San Martin-Gonzalez, Qing Jin and Da Chen
Foods 2026, 15(3), 498; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15030498 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
Conventional alkaline extraction of plant proteins typically requires highly alkaline conditions (pH ≥ 11) and extended extraction times (~1 h). Although protease addition can lower extraction pH and improve functionality, it often requires prolonged hydrolysis. In this study, enzymatic reactive extrusion (eREX [...] Read more.
Conventional alkaline extraction of plant proteins typically requires highly alkaline conditions (pH ≥ 11) and extended extraction times (~1 h). Although protease addition can lower extraction pH and improve functionality, it often requires prolonged hydrolysis. In this study, enzymatic reactive extrusion (eREX) using Alcalase, followed by a short duration alkaline extraction (5 min, pH 9), was evaluated as an alternative approach for producing protein-rich extracts from canola meal. The eREX process increased protein recovery by 48% and 42% compared with alkaline extraction conducted without and with Alcalase, respectively. The resulting powdered extracts reached a protein content of up to 49% and consisted primarily of partially hydrolyzed proteins (10–23 kDa) with increased surface hydrophobicity. Amino acid analysis showed substantial enrichment of essential amino acids, particularly histidine and sulfur-containing amino acids. Functional properties were improved, including enhanced solubility across pH 2–10, high foaming stability (88%), and increased oil-binding capacity (~5.5 g g−1), while in vitro digestibility remained comparable (~85%). Techno-economic analysis indicated reductions in water use (~11%), energy consumption (~48%), and production cost (16–25%). Overall, eREX provides a rapid, higher-throughput, and cost-effective strategy for producing premium canola protein ingredients. Full article
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22 pages, 70764 KB  
Article
An Integrated QSAR-MD-DCCM Pipeline: A Predictive Computational Platform for the Rational Design and Dynamic Functional Validation of Dual-Target Directed Ligands
by Shrikant S. Nilewar, Santosh Chobe, Prashik Dudhe, Perli Kranti Kumar, Sandesh Lodha, Akansha D. Raut, Dennys Fernández-Conde, Mohd Farhan, Ghazala Muteeb and Tushar Janardan Pawar
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(2), 249; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19020249 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
Background: The development of Multi-Target-Directed Ligands (MTDLs) has emerged as a significant strategy for addressing complex, overlapping pathologies such as cancer and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This study aims to provide a robust computational framework for the design of dual-target inhibitors. Methods: This study [...] Read more.
Background: The development of Multi-Target-Directed Ligands (MTDLs) has emerged as a significant strategy for addressing complex, overlapping pathologies such as cancer and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This study aims to provide a robust computational framework for the design of dual-target inhibitors. Methods: This study presents an integrated and rigorous computational pipeline combining Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationship (QSAR) modeling, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations with Dynamic Cross-Correlation Matrix (DCCM) analysis. Using a dataset of 57 known tubulin inhibitors, two high-performing QSAR models were developed to guide the rational design of 16 novel trimethoxyphenyl-based analogues. Results: Following ADMET and drug-likeness filtering, Lead Candidates 15 and 16 were identified. Quantitative activity predictions confirmed their enhanced potency thresholds, which were subsequently validated through static docking against β-tubulin (PDB: 4O2B) and Acetylcholinesterase (PDB: 1EVE). In total, 100 ns MD simulations and MM-GBSA calculations demonstrated superior binding stability and energetically favorable profiles for both targets, while DCCM analysis confirmed the functional synchrony of the protein–ligand complexes. Conclusions: The results provide a validated structural hypothesis for dual-target inhibition. The identified leads, 15 and 16, demonstrate strong predictive potential and are prioritized for chemical synthesis and in vitro biological evaluation. Full article
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14 pages, 3627 KB  
Article
Estrogen Receptor 2b Is Involved in Regulating Gonadotropin-Inhibitory Hormone Expression During Early Development in Zebrafish
by Wei Peng, Bolan Zhou, Yunsheng Zhang, Lili Hu and Liangguo Liu
Animals 2026, 16(3), 444; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16030444 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
Gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) is a neuropeptide involved in the regulation of reproductive function in vertebrates. It is able to inhibit the synthesis and secretion of GnRH and Gth in the HPG axis. However, the regulatory role and mechanism by which current [...] Read more.
Gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) is a neuropeptide involved in the regulation of reproductive function in vertebrates. It is able to inhibit the synthesis and secretion of GnRH and Gth in the HPG axis. However, the regulatory role and mechanism by which current gonadal steroid hormones regulate GnIH are still unclear. In this study, transcription factor binding site analysis was performed on the promoter sequence of zebrafish GnIH. Whereafter, transgenic zebrafish (GnIH: mCherry) accurately labeled GnIH and esr2b knockout zebrafish, which were constructed previously, were used to explore the regulation between estrogen and GnIH. In vitro exposure of wild-type zebrafish embryos and transgenic zebrafish embryos to estradiol showed that 10 μM estradiol significantly increased the transcription level of GnIH. However, both 10 μM and 50 μM estradiol significantly increased the transcription level of GnIH in esr2b knockout zebrafish. We compared the expression levels of GnIH in esr2b knockout zebrafish and wild-type zebrafish at different developmental stages (48 hpf–120 hpf). The results showed that from 96 hpf, the expression level of GnIH in esr2b knockout zebrafish was significantly higher than that in wild-type zebrafish, indicating that esr2b is involved in the negative regulation of GnIH, and this regulatory relationship is established on the fourth day of zebrafish development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Adaptation and Metabolic Regulation in Aquatic Animals)
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23 pages, 2166 KB  
Article
Ent–Clerodane Diterpenoid Inhibitors of Glucose-6-phosphatase from Croton guatemalensis Lotsy
by Sonia Marlen Escandón-Rivera, Adolfo Andrade-Cetto, Daniel Genaro Rosas-Ramírez, Gerardo Mata-Torres and Roberto Arreguín-Espinosa
Plants 2026, 15(3), 442; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030442 (registering DOI) - 31 Jan 2026
Abstract
The Croton genus includes a diverse group of plants with remarkable potential in natural products research, particularly due to their bioactive compounds with hypoglycemic and phytochemical significance. This study examines Croton guatemalensis Lotsy, focusing on its chemical composition and its biological efficacy as [...] Read more.
The Croton genus includes a diverse group of plants with remarkable potential in natural products research, particularly due to their bioactive compounds with hypoglycemic and phytochemical significance. This study examines Croton guatemalensis Lotsy, focusing on its chemical composition and its biological efficacy as a glucose-6-phosphatase inhibitor. Phytochemical analysis led to the isolation and structural elucidation of eleven compounds (111), including three new ent−clerodane diterpenes, designated crotoguatenoic acids C (9), D (10), and E (11). The absolute configurations of compounds 911 were determined by electronic circular dichroism (ECD) as (5R,8R,9R,10S)-configured ent–clerodanes. High-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS/MS) revealed 25 peaks tentatively assigned to terpenoids, flavonoids, and alkaloids, highlighting the species’ chemical diversity. In vitro assays using ethanol–water extract (EWE) and isolated compounds with rat liver microsomes demonstrated inhibitory activity against glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase), particularly among ent–clerodane diterpenes (73–96%), with EWE and compounds 1, 4, and 11 showing the highest inhibition. Molecular docking analysis revealed strong interactions between these diterpenoids and the G6PC1 binding pocket, with binding energies comparable to chlorogenic acid (positive control). These findings position C. guatemalensis as a valuable source of bioactive diterpenoids and support the potential of ent-clerodane derivatives as natural G6Pase inhibitors for hyperglycemia management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Phytochemicals for Blood Glucose Regulation)
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20 pages, 4663 KB  
Article
Synthesis, In Vitro Cytotoxicity Evaluation and GSK-3β Binding Study of Some Indole–Triazole-Linked Pyrazolone Derivatives
by Ashok Madarakhandi, Sujeet Kumar, Nishith Teraiya, Gokulakrishnan Sakthivel, Basavaraj Metikurki, Veda B. Hacholli, Dominique Schols, Febina Ravindran, Bibha Choudhary and Subhas S. Karki
Chemistry 2026, 8(2), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemistry8020017 (registering DOI) - 31 Jan 2026
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β) is a multifunctional serine/threonine kinase mediating multiple cellular functions, such as differentiation, apoptosis, and cell proliferation. Because of their ability to alter carcinogenic pathways, GSK-3β inhibitors are being explored for the development of anticancer molecules. [...] Read more.
Glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β) is a multifunctional serine/threonine kinase mediating multiple cellular functions, such as differentiation, apoptosis, and cell proliferation. Because of their ability to alter carcinogenic pathways, GSK-3β inhibitors are being explored for the development of anticancer molecules. In the present study, we synthesized and evaluated the cytotoxic properties of a series of twenty indole–triazole-linked pyrazolone derivatives, 10AaEd. All derivatives were characterized by FTIR, 1H/13C NMR, and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) methods. All compounds and standards, sunitinib and 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU), were screened against four adherent cell lines, including pancreatic adenocarcinoma (Capan-1), colorectal carcinoma (HCT-116), glioblastoma(LN229), and lung carcinoma (NCI-4460), and four non-adherent cell lines, including acute myeloid leukemia (HL-60), chronic myeloid leukemia (K562), T lymphoblast (MOLT4), and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (Z138). Among the screened derivatives, molecule 10Aa showed cytotoxicity against MOLT 4, Z138, and HL60 with CC50 values of 14.45 μM, 15.34 μM, and 17.56 μM, respectively. GSK-3β kinase inhibition was evaluated with the 10Aa, which is capable of inhibiting GSK-3β in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, molecular docking was performed to estimate the correlation between invitro data and GSK-3β binding affinity. The outcomes of the invitro experiments demonstrated strong concordance with the insilico data. The discovery yielded compounds 10Aa and 10Cd, which can be modified to create effective anticancer agents that target GSK-3β. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medicinal Chemistry)
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27 pages, 10639 KB  
Article
Taming the Tumor Stroma: A Two-Stage Targeted Nanocapsule for Potent Deep Chemo-Immunotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
by Bin Xing, Xinru Shen, Xintao Jia, Ying Zhang, Zhongyan Liu, Xueli Guo, Xin Li and Zhidong Liu
Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(2), 184; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18020184 - 30 Jan 2026
Viewed by 23
Abstract
Background: The tumor microenvironment (TME) poses significant challenges to effective therapy, with cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) playing a key role in tumor progression and drug resistance in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Herein, a TME responsive nanocapsule, NPC-ABS/FDS, was developed utilizing baicalein, a CAFs [...] Read more.
Background: The tumor microenvironment (TME) poses significant challenges to effective therapy, with cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) playing a key role in tumor progression and drug resistance in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Herein, a TME responsive nanocapsule, NPC-ABS/FDS, was developed utilizing baicalein, a CAFs modulator, and the cytotoxic drug doxorubicin to selectively target CAFs and tumor cells, respectively, in a stepwise manner. Methods: NPC-ABS/FDS was designed with CD13-mediated primary targeting for tumor accumulation and secondary targeting via σ-receptor binding (ABS nanoparticles) for CAFs and folate modification (FDS nanoparticles) for cancer cells. Physicochemical properties were assessed using TEM, particle size, and ζ-potential analyses. Fluorescence imaging evaluated tumor retention, while cellular uptake and TME modulation were analyzed in vitro and in vivo. Results: The successful preparation of NPC-ABS/FDS was demonstrated by its uniform morphology, stable characteristics, charge reversal, and increased particle size. Fluorescence imaging confirmed prolonged peritumoral retention. Cellular uptake increased 2.5-fold for baicalein in CAFs and 4.3-fold for doxorubicin in cancer cells. NPC-ABS/FDS downregulated α-SMA and FAP, reducing CAFs activation, improving intratumoral drug penetration, and enhancing CD8+ and CD4+ T cell infiltration while decreasing regulatory T cells. Conclusions: NPC-ABS/FDS effectively modulates multiple TME components, including CAFs and immune cells, and improves drug delivery in TNBC. These findings may support the development of improved therapeutic approaches for TNBC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Drug Targeting and Design)
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19 pages, 2452 KB  
Article
AHR-CYP1A1 Axis Perturbation and Necroptosis in 1,2-Dichloroethane Hepatotoxicity: Elucidation by an Integrated Network Toxicology and In Vitro Validation
by Yichang Liu, Huijie Luo, Zhiling Tian, Hewen Dong, Dong Ma, Xiaojing Meng and Ningguo Liu
Toxics 2026, 14(2), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics14020136 - 30 Jan 2026
Viewed by 46
Abstract
As a typical halogenated hydrocarbon environmental pollutant, 1,2-dichloroethane (1,2-DCE) exhibits clinically confirmed hepatotoxicity with incompletely understood mechanisms. This study integrated network toxicology, molecular docking, and in vitro experiments to investigate necroptosis in 1,2-DCE-induced liver injury. Computational analysis predicted involvement of the aryl hydrocarbon [...] Read more.
As a typical halogenated hydrocarbon environmental pollutant, 1,2-dichloroethane (1,2-DCE) exhibits clinically confirmed hepatotoxicity with incompletely understood mechanisms. This study integrated network toxicology, molecular docking, and in vitro experiments to investigate necroptosis in 1,2-DCE-induced liver injury. Computational analysis predicted involvement of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR)/cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1) pathway, and molecular docking suggested potential binding between 1,2-DCE and AHR (−6.5 kcal/mol). CCK-8 assays showed that 1,2-DCE reduced THLE-2 hepatocyte viability in a concentration-dependent manner. Notably, 1,2-DCE triggered rapid AHR nuclear translocation within 1 h and transiently upregulated CYP1A1 at both the transcriptional and protein levels (3–6 h). Further studies revealed elevated intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) at 24 h. After 48 h exposure, CYP1A1 expression was significantly suppressed, accompanied by activation of necroptosis markers, including increased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, enhanced propidium iodide (PI) staining, and elevated phosphorylation of receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIPK3) and mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL). These findings reveal a dual-phase mechanism: an early adaptive stress response via the AHR-CYP1A1 axis, followed by pathway dysfunction and transition to necroptosis, suggesting AHR as a potential target for intervening in 1,2-DCE-induced hepatotoxicity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Human Toxicology and Epidemiology)
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28 pages, 1893 KB  
Article
Design and Synthesis of 4-Arylazo Pyrazole Carboxamides as Dual AChE/BChE Inhibitors: Kinetic and In Silico Evaluation
by Suleyman Akocak, Nebih Lolak, Hatice Esra Duran, Büşra Demir Çetinkaya, Hamada Hashem, Stefan Bräse and Cüneyt Türkeş
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(2), 239; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19020239 - 29 Jan 2026
Viewed by 90
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Pyrazole carboxamides are widely used as adaptable medicinal-chemistry scaffolds and have been explored as cholinesterase (ChE) inhibitor chemotypes. In this work, we prepared a new series of 4-arylazo-3,5-diamino-N-tosyl-1H-pyrazole-1-carboxamides 5(am) and evaluated their inhibitory [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Pyrazole carboxamides are widely used as adaptable medicinal-chemistry scaffolds and have been explored as cholinesterase (ChE) inhibitor chemotypes. In this work, we prepared a new series of 4-arylazo-3,5-diamino-N-tosyl-1H-pyrazole-1-carboxamides 5(am) and evaluated their inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), supported by structure-based computational analyses. Methods: Thirteen derivatives 5(am) were synthesized, fully characterized with analytical techniques (FT-IR, H NMR, and C NMR), and tested in vitro against AChE and BChE, with tacrine (THA) used as the reference inhibitor. Docking calculations were used to examine plausible binding modes. The top-ranked complexes (7XN1–5e and 4BDS–5i) were further examined by 100 ns explicit-solvent molecular dynamics (MD) simulations in Cresset Flare, followed by RMSD/RMSF analysis and contact-persistence profiling. Predicted ADME/Tox. properties were also assessed to identify potential developability issues. Results: The series showed strong ChE inhibition, and several compounds were more potent than THA. Compound 5e (4-nitro) was the most active AChE inhibitor (KI = 20.86 ± 1.61 nM) compared with THA (KI = 164.40 ± 20.84 nM). For BChE, the KI values ranged from 31.21 to 87.07 nM and exceeded the reference compound’s activity. MD trajectories supported stable binding in both systems (10–100 ns mean backbone RMSD: 2.21 ± 0.17 Å for 7XN1–5e; 1.89 ± 0.11 Å for 4BDS–5i). Most fluctuations were confined to flexible regions, while key contacts remained in place, consistent with the docking models. ADME/Tox. predictions suggested moderate lipophilicity but generally low aqueous solubility; all compounds were predicted as non-BBB permeant, and selected liabilities were flagged (e.g., carcinogenicity for 5e/5g/5h/5i; nephrotoxicity for 5f/5g). Conclusions: The 4-arylazo-3,5-diamino-N-tosyl-1H-pyrazole-1-carboxamide scaffold delivers low-nanomolar ChE inhibition, with docking and MD supporting stable binding modes. Future optimization should prioritize solubility improvement and mitigation of predicted toxicities and metabolic liabilities, especially given the predicted lack of BBB permeability for CNS-directed applications. Full article
16 pages, 4985 KB  
Article
Melatonin Biosynthesis, Receptors, and the Microbiota–Tryptophan–Melatonin Axis: A Shared Dysbiosis Signature Across Cardiac Arrhythmias, Epilepsy, Malignant Proliferation, and Cognitive Trajectories
by Alexandre Tavartkiladze, Russel J. Reiter, Ruite Lou, Dinara Kasradze, Nana Okrostsvaridze, Pati Revazishvili, Maia Maisuradze, George Dundua, Irine Andronikashvili, Pirdara Nozadze, David Jinchveladze, Levan Tavartkiladze, Rusudan Khutsishvili and Tatia Potskhoraia
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(3), 1361; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27031361 - 29 Jan 2026
Viewed by 82
Abstract
Melatonin, an indolic neuromodulator with putative oncostatic and proposed anti-inflammatory properties, primarily demonstrated in preclinical models, is produced at extrapineal sites—most notably in the gut. Its canonical actions are mediated by high-affinity GPCRs (MT1/MT2) and by NQO2, a cytosolic enzyme with a melatonin-binding [...] Read more.
Melatonin, an indolic neuromodulator with putative oncostatic and proposed anti-inflammatory properties, primarily demonstrated in preclinical models, is produced at extrapineal sites—most notably in the gut. Its canonical actions are mediated by high-affinity GPCRs (MT1/MT2) and by NQO2, a cytosolic enzyme with a melatonin-binding site (historically termed “MT3”). A growing body of work highlights a bidirectional interaction between the gut microbiota and host melatonin. We integrated two lines of work: (i) three clinical cohorts—cardiac arrhythmias (n = 111; 46–75 y), epilepsy (n = 77; 20–59 y), and stage III–IV solid cancers (25–79 y)—profiled with stool 16S rRNA sequencing, SCFA measurements, and circulating melatonin/urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin and (ii) an age-spanning cognitive cohort with melatonin phenotyping, microbiome analyses, and exploratory immune/metabolite readouts, including a novel observation of melatonin binding on bacterial membranes. Across all three disease cohorts, we observed moderate-to-severe dysbiosis, with reduced alpha-diversity and shifted beta-structure. The core dysbiosis implicated tryptophan-active taxa (Bacteroides/Clostridiales proteolysis and indolic conversions) and depletion of SCFA-forward commensals (e.g., Faecalibacterium, Blautia, Akkermansia, and several Lactobacillus/Bifidobacterium spp.). Synthesised literature indicates that typical human gut commensals rarely secrete measurable melatonin in vitro; rather, their metabolites (SCFAs, lactate, and tryptophan derivatives) regulate host enterochromaffin serotonin/melatonin production. In arrhythmia models, dysbiosis, bile-acid remodelling, and autonomic/inflammatory tone align with melatonin-sensitive antiarrhythmic effects. Epilepsy exhibits circadian seizure patterns and tryptophan–metabolite signatures, with modest and heterogeneous responses to add-on melatonin. Cancer cohorts show broader dysbiosis consistent with melatonin’s oncostatic actions. In the cognitive cohort, the absence of dysbiosis tracked with preserved learning across ages, and exploratory immunohistochemistry suggested melatonin-binding sites on bacterial membranes in ~15–17% of samples. A unifying microbiota–tryptophan–melatonin axis plausibly integrates circadian, electrophysiologic, and immune–oncologic phenotypes. Practical levers include fiber-rich diets (to drive SCFAs), light hygiene, and time-aware therapy, with indication-specific use of melatonin. Our conclusions regarding microbiota–melatonin crosstalk rely primarily on local paracrine effects within the gut mucosa (where melatonin concentrations are 10–400× plasma levels), whereas systemic chronotherapy conclusions depend on circulating melatonin amplitude and phase. This original research article presents primary data from four prospectively enrolled clinical cohorts (total n = 577). Full article
34 pages, 24710 KB  
Article
Integrated In Vitro, In Vivo, and In Silico Evaluation of Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, Analgesic, and Anti-Arthritic Activities of Selected Marine Species
by Md. Jahin Khandakar, Ainun Nahar, Md. Wahidul Alam, Md. Jahirul Islam Mamun, Abu Sayeed Muhammad Sharif, Asef Raj, Md. Enamul Hoque, Israt Sultana Isha, Nafisa Nawsheen, Saika Ahmed, Md Riasat Hasan, Abu Bin Ihsan and Takashi Saito
Bioengineering 2026, 13(2), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering13020158 - 28 Jan 2026
Viewed by 145
Abstract
Marine ecosystems represent a largely untapped reservoir of bioactive compounds with significant pharmacological potential. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic properties of ethanol extracts from four marine species: Padina australis, Spatoglossum asperum, Holothuria (Halodeima) atra, and Hypnea valentiae. [...] Read more.
Marine ecosystems represent a largely untapped reservoir of bioactive compounds with significant pharmacological potential. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic properties of ethanol extracts from four marine species: Padina australis, Spatoglossum asperum, Holothuria (Halodeima) atra, and Hypnea valentiae. Phytochemical screening, along with a comprehensive series of in vitro, in vivo, and in silico assays, was performed to evaluate the extracts’ pharmacological activities, including antioxidant potential (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay), anti-inflammatory effect (carrageenan-induced paw edema method), analgesic activity (acetic acid-induced writhing and tail immersion tests), and anti-arthritic efficacy (protein denaturation assay). The extracts were found to be rich in flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, glycosides, and phenolic compounds, which may underlie the observed bioactivities. In the acetic acid–induced writhing test, Hypnea valentiae at 400 mg/kg exhibited the highest peripheral analgesic activity, producing 82.51% inhibition of writhing (p < 0.001). In the tail immersion assay, Padina australis at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg showed significant central analgesic effects, as evidenced by increased latency time and percentage of maximum possible effect (MPE). In the carrageenan-induced paw edema model, several treatment groups, including Padina australis, Hypnea valentiae, Spatoglossum asperum, and Holothuria atra, at both tested doses showed marked suppression of inflammation, with some groups achieving complete inhibition (100%; p < 0.001) at 120 min. The ethanol extract of Holothuria atra exhibited the strongest antioxidant and anti-arthritic activities, with an IC50 value of 88.39 µg/mL in the DPPH assay and 81.35% inhibition of protein denaturation. Additionally, the compounds derived from the four marine species exhibited significant binding affinity to the selected target receptors, thereby validating the experimental findings. The marine species studied possess multifaceted pharmacological properties, supporting their potential as natural sources for developing therapeutic agents supporting the blue economy. Further studies are recommended to isolate active compounds and elucidate underlying mechanisms to support future drug development efforts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemical Engineering)
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21 pages, 1265 KB  
Article
From Plant to Target: Uncovering a Novel Anti-Inflammatory Compound in Pouzolzia pentandra via Phytochemical, Cellular, and Computational Studies
by Do Tien Lam, Nguyen Anh Hung, Dao Viet Hung, Pham Thi Hong Minh, Hoang Thi Le Thuong and Vu Thi Thu Le
Molecules 2026, 31(3), 461; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31030461 - 28 Jan 2026
Viewed by 120
Abstract
Phytochemical investigation of the ethyl acetate extract from the aerial parts of Pouzolzia pentandra led to the isolation and identification of fourteen compounds (114). These include known compounds such as β-sitosterol (1), bauerenol (2), [...] Read more.
Phytochemical investigation of the ethyl acetate extract from the aerial parts of Pouzolzia pentandra led to the isolation and identification of fourteen compounds (114). These include known compounds such as β-sitosterol (1), bauerenol (2), oleanolic acid (3), 3β-friedelanol (4), kaempferol (5), quercetin (6), 2′,6′-dihydroxy-3′,4′-dimethoxychalcone (7), friedelan-3-one (8), dipterocarpol (9), 3β-hydroxyolean-12-en-28-one 3-p-coumarate (10), daucosterol (11), astilbin (12), 3-methoxy-4-hydroxybenzoic acid (13), and pouzolignan F (14). Among these, compound 14 displayed the most potent inhibitory activity on nitric oxide (NO) production in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages, with an IC50 value of 10.54 ± 0.4 µM. Mechanistic studies further revealed that compound 14 significantly suppressed the LPS-induced release of key pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Furthermore, it inhibited the activation of the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway by preventing the nuclear translocation of its p65 subunit. Molecular docking studies were performed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory potential of compound 14 against cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4). The compound exhibited binding affinities of −6.138 kcal/mol and −9.361 kcal/mol for COX-2 and PDE4, respectively. Subsequent molecular dynamics (MD) simulations confirmed the formation of a stable complex with the active site of PDE4. Collectively, these integrated in vitro and in silico findings demonstrate that pouzolignan F acts as a multi-target anti-inflammatory agent, likely through the inhibition of inflammatory mediators, cytokines, and the NF-κB pathway. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds in Plants: Extraction and Application)
18 pages, 3881 KB  
Article
Phosphorus Regulates Cotton Fiber Development Through GhPHR1-GhGCS1 Module
by Zhiqing Qiao, Junli Ding, Qiaoling Wang, Xingying Yan, Yinghui Gao, Pingting Tan, Ning Liu, Fei Liu and Ming Luo
Agronomy 2026, 16(3), 324; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy16030324 - 28 Jan 2026
Viewed by 101
Abstract
Cotton is an important cash crop globally. Cotton fiber is the main economic product of cotton plants. Phosphorus, as one of the essential nutrients, plays an important role in plant growth and development. However, few studies focus on phosphorus regulating fiber elongation. In [...] Read more.
Cotton is an important cash crop globally. Cotton fiber is the main economic product of cotton plants. Phosphorus, as one of the essential nutrients, plays an important role in plant growth and development. However, few studies focus on phosphorus regulating fiber elongation. In this study, we used the cotton ovule culture system in vitro to explore the effects of various phosphorus levels on fiber and ovule growth, and screened for phosphorus-responsive factor, as well as revealed its action mechanism. The results indicated that fiber elongation was more sensitive than ovule growth to phosphorus deficiency. GhPHR1, a homolog of phosphate starvation response 1 (PHR1) in upland cotton, was significantly upregulated in fibers and ovules under phosphorus-deficient conditions. GhPHR1 directly binds to the promoter of the glucosylceramide synthase gene in cotton (GhGCS1) and positively regulates its expression. Overexpressing GhGCS1 enhanced phosphorus uptake and transport in cotton, increased phosphorus content in fiber cells, and promoted fiber cell elongation. Conversely, downregulating GhGCS1 reduced phosphorus content in fiber cells and suppressed fiber elongation. These findings demonstrate the importance of the GhPHR1-GhGCS1 molecular module in regulating fiber cell elongation and elucidate the molecular mechanism by which phosphorus influences fiber elongation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lipid Action in Crop Development and Defense)
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14 pages, 1168 KB  
Article
The Maize WRKY Transcription Factor ZmWRKY4 Confers Lead Tolerance by Regulating ZmCAT1 Expression
by Long Wang, Meiying Liu, Wenfei Bi, Su Li, Chang Chen, Yang Jing, Xiong Zhang and Tong Han
Plants 2026, 15(3), 394; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030394 - 28 Jan 2026
Viewed by 131
Abstract
Lead (Pb) severely impairs plant growth, yet the role of WRKY transcription factors in Pb tolerance in maize remains largely unknown. Here, we identified a Pb-responsive WRKY transcription factor, ZmWRKY4, whose transcript levels were rapidly and strongly induced in maize leaves following Pb [...] Read more.
Lead (Pb) severely impairs plant growth, yet the role of WRKY transcription factors in Pb tolerance in maize remains largely unknown. Here, we identified a Pb-responsive WRKY transcription factor, ZmWRKY4, whose transcript levels were rapidly and strongly induced in maize leaves following Pb exposure. Physiological and biochemical analyses showed that overexpression of ZmWRKY4 substantially enhanced Pb tolerance in maize. Transgenic lines exhibited significantly lower malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and reduced electrolyte leakage than wild-type plants. In addition, ZmWRKY4 overexpression increased catalase (CAT) activity and effectively limited H2O2 accumulation. Further analyses revealed that ZmWRKY4 positively regulates ZmCAT1, a key antioxidant gene involved in H2O2 scavenging, under Pb stress. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays and ChIP-qPCR collectively confirmed that ZmWRKY4 directly binds to W-box elements within the ZmCAT1 promoter in vivo and in vitro, thereby activating its transcription. Together, these findings define a previously uncharacterized ZmWRKY4-ZmCAT1 regulatory module that enhances antioxidant capacity and mitigates oxidative damage during Pb stress. This work provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying heavy metal tolerance in maize and identifies a promising genetic target for developing Pb-resilient crop varieties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Regulation of Maize Abiotic Stress Resilience)
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14 pages, 930 KB  
Review
Big Tau: Structure, Evolutionary Divergence, and Emerging Roles in Cytoskeletal Dynamics and Tauopathies
by Itzhak Fischer and Peter W. Baas
Cells 2026, 15(3), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15030241 - 27 Jan 2026
Viewed by 118
Abstract
Tau proteins are microtubule-associated proteins that regulate axonal structure, dynamics, and transport, and their dysregulation underlies several neurodegenerative diseases. The MAPT gene produces multiple tau isoforms through alternative splicing, including the high-molecular-weight isoform known as Big tau, which contains an insert of the [...] Read more.
Tau proteins are microtubule-associated proteins that regulate axonal structure, dynamics, and transport, and their dysregulation underlies several neurodegenerative diseases. The MAPT gene produces multiple tau isoforms through alternative splicing, including the high-molecular-weight isoform known as Big tau, which contains an insert of the large 4a exon of approximately 250 amino acids. Big tau is predominantly expressed in neurons of the peripheral nervous system (PNS), cranial motor nuclei, and select neurons of the central nervous system (CNS) such as the cerebellum and brainstem. Developmental expression studies indicate a switch from low-molecular-weight isoforms of tau to Big tau during axonal maturation, suggesting that Big tau optimizes cytoskeletal dynamics to accommodate long axonal projections. Comparative sequence and biophysical analyses show that the exon-4a insert is highly acidic, intrinsically disordered, and evolutionarily conserved in its length but not its primary sequence, implying a structural role. Emerging modeling and in vitro assays suggest that the extended projection domain provided by the exon-4a insert spatially and electrostatically shields the aggregation-prone PHF6 and PHF6* motifs in tau’s microtubule-binding domain, thereby reducing β-sheet driven aggregation. This mechanism may explain why tauopathies that involve aggregation of tau have little effect on the PNS and specific regions of the CNS such as the cerebellum, where Big tau predominates. Transcriptomic and proteomic data further suggest that alternative Big tau variants, including 4a-L, are expressed in certain cancerous tissues, indicating broader roles in cytoskeletal remodeling beyond neurons. Despite its putative anti-aggregation properties, the physiological regulation, interaction partners, and in vivo mechanisms of Big tau remain poorly defined. This review summarizes what is known about Big tau and what is missing toward a better understanding of how expansion via inclusion of exon 4a modifies tau’s structural and functional properties. Our purpose is to inspire future studies that could lead to novel therapeutic strategies to mitigate tau aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in the Study of Tau Protein)
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29 pages, 3654 KB  
Article
Direct Cytoplasmic Transcription and Trimeric RBD Design Synergize to Enhance DNA Vaccine Potency Against SARS-CoV-2
by Yunju Nam, Sang Chul Shin, Sang Won Cho and Hyung Jun Ahn
Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(2), 164; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18020164 - 26 Jan 2026
Viewed by 329
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The emergence of immune-evasive SARS-CoV-2 variants highlights the need for adaptable vaccine strategies. Trimeric receptor-binding domain (tRBD) antigens offer structural and immunological advantages over monomeric RBDs, but DNA vaccine efficacy has been limited by inefficient antigen expression, particularly in non-dividing antigen-presenting cells. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The emergence of immune-evasive SARS-CoV-2 variants highlights the need for adaptable vaccine strategies. Trimeric receptor-binding domain (tRBD) antigens offer structural and immunological advantages over monomeric RBDs, but DNA vaccine efficacy has been limited by inefficient antigen expression, particularly in non-dividing antigen-presenting cells. Although cytoplasmic transcription–based DNA platforms have been developed to overcome nuclear entry barriers, their utility for antigen structure–function optimization remains underexplored. This study evaluated whether integrating a rationally designed trimeric RBD with a T7-driven cytoplasmic transcription system could enhance immunogenic performance. Methods: A DNA vaccine encoding a tandem trimeric SARS-CoV-2 RBD was delivered using a T7 RNA polymerase-driven cytoplasmic transcription system. In vitro antigen expression was assessed following Lipofectamine 3000-mediated transfection. In vivo, mice were immunized with the SM-102-based Rpol/tRBD/LNP formulation, and immunogenicity was assessed by antigen-specific antibody titers, serum neutralizing activity, and T-cell response profiling, together with basic safety/tolerability evaluations. Results: The T7-driven cytoplasmic transcription system markedly increased antigen mRNA and protein expression compared with conventional plasmid delivery. Rpol/tRBD vaccination induced higher anti-RBD IgG titers, enhanced neutralizing antibody activity, and robust CD8⁺ T cell responses relative to monomeric RBD and plasmid-based trimeric RBD vaccines. Immune responses were Th1-skewed and accompanied by germinal center activation without excessive inflammatory cytokine induction, body-weight loss, or hepatic and renal toxicity. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that integrating rational trimeric antigen engineering with direct cytoplasmic transcription enables balanced and well-tolerated immune activation in a DNA vaccine context. The T7 autogene-based platform provides a flexible framework for antigen structure–function optimization and supports the development of next-generation DNA vaccines targeting rapidly evolving viral pathogens. Full article
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